Get Your Home Ready for Winter With These

7 Cleaning Tips

We’ve all heard of spring cleaning, but what about winter cleaning? After all, we tend to spend more time indoors during the colder winter months and most people also entertain more during the late fall and early winter holidays, so why not get a head start on the preparations so you can focus on cooking, decorating and shopping for gifts? Check out our handy guide below.

1. Dust everything.

The winter air can be pretty dry which means dust gathers quickly and thickly on surfaces like tabletops, bookshelves and fireplace mantels. Those spaces are pretty visible, so you know when they need a good dusting, but those spots you can’t see are the ones can be a real pain, especially if you suffer from allergies. Before winter begins, get a head start by wiping down those hidden nooks and crannies so you can start with a blank slate.

2. Replace your furnace filter.

Ideally, you should replace your furnace filter once a month while it’s in use. It not only keeps your air clean, but it can also keep your energy costs down, and who doesn’t love to save a few dollars? When you replace the filter, make sure the furnace itself is free of dust and grime. Wipe it down if necessary and vacuum any dust bunnies that are making a home on the floor around the furnace.   

3. Prepare your entry for snowy shoes and boots.

If you live somewhere that sees snow during the winter, you know what salt and snow can do to your floors and carpets, especially in heavy traffic areas. Place a basket or bin for snowy shoes and boots near the doorway along with an extra towel for extra stormy weather. Choose something that will catch and hold water from thawing snow and ice. Place a waterproof rug at the doorway, along with a chair or bench to make the shoe removal process easier.

4. Prepare the fireplace.

Your fireplace often saves the day during those cold winter days, so make sure it’s ready to go before temps dip below freezing. Consider hiring a chimney sweep to remove the debris that built up throughout the year. Vacuum out the interior, and brush down the walls. Remove any old firewood, and clean the grate and glass doors.   

5. Wash up your winter bedding.

Comforters, quilts, flannel sheets — you probably said goodbye to your warm and cozy bedding months ago, but it will soon be time to bring it out again. Get a head start by sorting through it, taking inventory and replacing worn items. Some comforters and duvets may require dry cleaning or washing in a larger machine than you have in your home, so make arrangements to visit a dry cleaner or laundromat. Be sure all winter bedding receives a fresh washing before you use it to rid it of dust and musty smells from storage.